Why does propanone show lower reactivity toward nucleophilic addition compared to ethanal in a competitive reaction environment?
Q1. Why does propanone show lower reactivity toward nucleophilic addition compared to ethanal in a competitive reaction environment?
Answer: Steric hindrance by alkyl groups
Explanation: Ketones are generally less reactive than aldehydes toward nucleophiles due to the inductive effect of two alkyl groups and greater steric crowding.